Church Organizations

ARS

History and Mission

The Armenian Relief Society, Inc. (ARS) was originally founded in 1910 in New York City by the Armenian Revolutionary Federation to provide humanitarian assistance to Armenians throughout the world. The ARS today is an internationally based, non-profit organization serving the social, medical, and educational needs of Armenian communities throughout the world. ARS headquarters are presently located in Watertown, Massachusetts.  The organization is active on seven continents with a membership of approximately 18,000. The organizational publication – Hai Sird [The Armenian Heart]  is printed and distributed at the end of each calendar year with articles in English, Armenian, Arabic, French and Spanish. The ARS is also an NGO [Non-Governmental Organization] on the roster of ECOSOC [Economic & Social Council] at the United Nations in a consultative status.  Representatives of the ARS attend weekly informational sessions, and the ARS cooperates and participates with other NGO members at the United Nations in New York.  

Organizational Structure

The mission of the ARS is carried out by the International Board of Directors elected at the organization’s triennial conventions.  In North America there are three Regional entities – East, West and Canadian Regionals.  In addition to regional and local activities and programs, every entity in the world responds to the International Board’s request for assistance in emergency situations and through their long-term on-going projects and programs in Armenia and Karabagh. 

Who May Join?

Membership is open to anyone 18 years of age or older. 

Who May I Contact In Order To Join?

For the local "Ararat" Chapter of Springfield, contact: Sonia at 413-567-6622 OR Nora at 413-596-9920